T20 World Cup 2026: India smash their highest-ever total in mega event

India produced a batting masterclass at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai, piling up a record-breaking 256/4 in their 20 overs against Zimbabwe in the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 - their highest total ever in the tournament’s history.

The innings was powered by a series of explosive contributions throughout the order. Abhishek Sharma led the charge with a fluent 55, while Hardik Pandya added further firepower with a brisk half-century, scoring 50. Sanju Samson set the tone early with a quick 24 at the top of the order before being dismissed.

Promoted changes in the batting lineup also paid dividends. Ishan Kishan, slotted in at No. 3, compiled a handy 38 off just 24 balls. Captain Suryakumar Yadav unleashed a rapid cameo, smashing 33 in only 13 deliveries. Tilak Varma, sent in at No. 6, delivered a late onslaught, blasting 44 off a mere 16 balls as India finished with a staggering 34 boundaries including 17 fours and 17 sixes.

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Zimbabwe’s bowlers endured a torrid outing. Tinotenda Maposa leaked 40 runs in just two overs, while Brad Evans finished with figures of 0/52 from his four overs. Blessing Muzarabani briefly provided hope by removing the in-form Samson, but he too proved expensive, ending with 43 runs conceded in his spell.